What if you could carry all your food and drinks hands-free on your adventures? Better yet, what if you could keep everything ice-cold for 24 hours (or even longer)?
We all know that food and drinks are a must on adventures – especially with kids. But, if youʻve ever struggled to lug a traditional hard-sided cooler down more than three feet from your car, youʻve probably muttered a few things under your breath while wishing for a better option.
The best news? There IS a better option. ICEMULE Coolers responded to the call for a more portable cooler with their durable soft-sided, backpack-style coolers.
In this ICEMULE Cooler Review, weʻll dig into all the details you need to know about ICEMULE coolers, including features unique to ICEMULE, such as the patented IM AirValve and leakproof roll-top design, to help you decide if they live up to the hype.
ICEMULE Coolers sponsored this post. However, as always, all content and opinions are our own.
Which ICEMULE Cooler is best?
Honestly, it depends on your particular situation and specific needs. If you simply need a small cooler to keep beverages cold while you paddleboard? We suggest the Jaunt.
Want something to carry dinner and drinks for the entire family and stay cold all day? We recommend the ICEMULE Pro.
And if youʻre looking for a comfortable cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for multiple days, you want the ICEMULE BOSS.
If youʻre in a hurry, hereʻs a quick breakdown of the five coolers we’ve tested from ICEMULE. But if you have a little more time, keep reading for a more detailed review of the different models.
- Best for carrying lighter loads, trips to the park, and water sports
- Ice retention for up to 24 hours
- Completely waterproof with welded seams and no zippers
- Best for short outings, kids, paddleboarding
- Ice retention for 24+ hours
- External zipper pocket
- Best for adventures up to 24 hours or family beach days
- Ice retention for 24+ hours
- External bungee cords for extra gear
- Best for multi-day adventures, camping trips, or extreme heat.
- Ice retention for multiple days
- 3 Waterproof external pockets
- Best for venues that allow food and drinks, but require clear bags for entry.
- Ice retention for 5-7 hours.
- Clear construction makes it easy to see contents.
Overview and Unique Features of ICEMULE Coolers
Though traditional hard coolers have their place, they arenʻt exactly easy to carry or very portable. I know I certainly wonʻt be taking one on a hike. 😅
The idea for ICEMULE Coolers was actually born when the founder simply wanted a way to have cold drinks and food on a hike with friends. After a make-shift cooler failed, he devised the concept for ICEMULE.
What Makes ICEMULE Coolers different?
Weʻve had the opportunity to test out five different versions of backpack coolers from ICEMULE – the Classic, the Jaunt, the Clear, the Pro, and the BOSS. Below, weʻll get into the details of each unique version, but here are some of the features they all have in common.
Portable and Comfortable
ICEMULE Coolers are designed to be both portable and comfortable. Unlike some wearable coolers that simply have straps attached, these coolers are strategically designed with two padded straps (with the exception of the Classic) to be as comfortable as your favorite backpack. Because of this, they are much easier to carry on any adventure – beach days, hiking, paddleboarding, and more.
Soft-Sided
In addition, because they are soft coolers, many of ICEMULEʻs designs can be folded or rolled up for storage saving you valuable storage space. For example, the ICEMULE Jaunt, Classic, and Pro all work well for this.
We find the ease of storing to be especially convenient when weʻre on a trip in our camper. We can easily place an ICEMULE cooler in one of our storage compartments, then pull it out to fill with drinks and food from our Dometic fridge for day trips.
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Waterproof
ICEMULE Coolers are constructed similarly to a dry bag, with a roll-top closure that clips into place to create a watertight seal. They use rugged exterior fabrics to increase durability and protect against the elements.
Design and Innovation
In addition to all the features above, there are two more features unique to ICEMULE that we love.
High-quality insulation layers
Each model uses insulation layers to deliver high-performance ice retention. For example, the Pro uses their PolarLayer Insulation to keep things cool for 24+ hours, while the BOSS is equipped with a unique insulation design to keep food and drink cold for multiple days.
IM AirValve
In addition to the high-performance layers of insulation, ICEMULE Coolers also have the creative IM AirValve. This feature allows you to add extra air to the insulating layer, increasing the capability of the insulation.
And if youʻre wondering, “do ICEMULE Coolers float,” the answer is yes! Because of this unique feature, as long as you fill and close them properly, they will float, which is fantastic for summer water activities like SUP.
ICEMULE Jaunt Cooler Review
First up in our ICEMULE Cooler review is the Jaunt. The Jaunt is ICEMULEʻs smallest Cooler with two traditional backpack straps (they also have a 10 L ICEMULE Classic Cooler with a single sling-style shoulder strap).
But just because itʻs small doesnʻt mean itʻs lacking in features. Or function. Nope, this mini Cooler is mighty and packed with all the great features you want in a cooler backpack.
The ICEMULE Jaunt is small but mighty with all the essential features of a high-performing backpack cooler.
- Best for short outings, kids, paddleboarding
- Ice retention for 24+ hours
- External zipper pocket
- Waterproof
- Leakproof
- Floats
- Simple to use
- Comfortable to carry
- Lots of color options
- May not be large enough for some families or for food and drinks on a full-day adventure.
- Is a little stiff to roll when new but softens up with use.
Key Features & Details
Ice Retention and Insulation Value
The ICEMULE Jaunt uses their PolarLayer Insulation to keep food and drinks cold for over 24 hours.
Comfort
Weʻve found the padded backpack straps on the Jaunt comfortable to wear, even for longer distances. In fact, our kids (10 and 12) can comfortably carry the Jaunt to the beach or even on short hikes. 🙌
Portability
Out of the five ICEMULE Coolers we tested, the Jaunt is tied with the Classic for most portable. When not in use, it folds or rolls into a small package and is easy to carry anywhere.
As weʻve been testing this soft cooler, I couldnʻt help but think how perfect it would have been on our last trip to Hawaii. Because of how small this Cooler can compress, I have no doubt it will become a permanent item on our packing list for plane travel.
Update: On a recent trip to Kauai, we packed our Jaunt, and it was just as perfect as I thought it would be. We used it regularly at the pool, the beach, and even took it on our 9+ mile hike to Hanakāpī’ai Falls!
Design & Function
We are highly impressed with the function of the ICEMULE Cooler at keeping drinks ice-cold, even in 90°F heat. While the roll-top is designed to keep things cold and water out, it also did an excellent job at keeping sand out of our food and drinks on a windy day at the beach. We also love that the Jaunt includes a front zipper pocket for extra dry storage.
Available Sizes and Cost
The ICEMULE Jaunt comes in two sizes, 15L and 9L.
The 15 L measures 9” x 8.5” x 17” when closed and can hold up to 15 standard size 12-oz cans, 18 skinny 12-oz cans, or 4 750ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $109.95.
In contrast, the 9L measures 7” x 7.5” x 17” when closed and holds 9 standard size 12-oz cans, 12 skinny 12-oz cans, or 3 750ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $89.95.
ICEMULE Pro Cooler Review
Next up in our ICEMULE Cooler review lineup is the Pro. The ICEMULE Pro is a high-performance backpack cooler that is comfortable to carry. Itʻs premium insulation keeps your drinks and food icy cold for 24+ hours and with multiple capacity options, youʻll be sure to find a size that fits your needs.
The ICEMULE Pro is a high-performance backpack cooler that is comfortable to carry and keeps your drinks and food icy cold for 24+ hours.
- Best for adventures up to 24 hours or family beach days
- Ice retention for 24+ hours
- External bungee cords for extra gear
- Waterproof
- Leakproof
- Floats
- Easy access to fill
- Simple to use
- Comfortable to carry
- Lots of color options
- Plenty of room for larger groups or full-day outings.
- Like other models, the roll-top closure feels a little stiff when new but softens with use.
- For outings more than 24 hours, you might need more insulating power.
- No front zipper pocket for extra dry storage.
- Lacks hip belt for additional support for heavier loads or on longer hikes.
Key Features & Details
Ice Retention and Insulation Value
PolarLayer Insulation combined with adding air via the IM AirValve keeps things nice and cool for over 24 hours. In our testing, weʻve experienced minimal ice melt at 36 hours in external temps around 75-85° F.
Comfort
In addition to padded backpack straps, a sternum strap and ventilated back panels on the back of the bag make carrying comfortable even when fully loaded. We also found that being sure to add air to the insulation layer via the air valve increases the comfort level.
Portability
Unlike more bulky coolers, the backpack straps make the ICEMULE Pro easy to carry in any environment. Similar to the Jaunt, the Pro can pack flat, be folded, or roll for easy storage at home or in your car when not in use.
Design & Function
The design and capacity of the ICEMULE Pro is ideal for larger groups or full-day outings, even in the summer heat. Durable MuleSkin fabric and welded seams mean this backpack cooler should last for years. While this model does not have a zipper pocket for extra dry storage, bungee cords on the front are convenient for holding a jacket or other soft items.
Available Sizes and Cost
The ICEUMULE Pro comes in 3 different sizes – Large (23L), X-Large (33L), and XX-Large (40L).
The Large measures 14” x 11” x 18” when closed and can hold up to 18 standard 12-oz cans or 5 750ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $134.95.
Going up one size, the X-Large measures 14” x 11” x 24” when closed and can hold up to 24 standard 12-oz cans or 5 750ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $144.95.
For the largest capacity in the ICEMULE Pro lineup, the XX-Large measures 14” x 11” x 27” and can hold up to 36 standard 12-oz cans or 5 750 ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $154.95.
ICEMULE BOSS Review
If a premium hard-sided cooler and a hiking backpack had a baby, it would be the ICEMULE BOSS. The BOSS is the last model in our ICEMULE cooler review and is designed to keep things cold for multiple days and has many ergonomic features youʻre used to in a hiking pack.
Made with rugged materials, designed to keep things icy cold for multiple days, and ergonomic features, the ICEMULE BOSS is one of the best soft-sided coolers on the market.
- Best for multi-day adventures, camping trips, or extreme heat.
- Ice retention for multiple days
- 3 Waterproof external pockets
- Superior insulation with multiple days of ice retention
- Waterproof
- Leakproof
- Floats
- Simple to use
- Hip belt disperses weight better than other models
- Insulated, waterproof cargo pockets keep items like electronics safe and dry
- Plenty of room for full-day outings
- Roll-top closure was the stiffest of the models we tested when new but has loosened up with use.
- Heavier than other models
- Bulkier to store than other models
- Loading items is a bit more challenging due to extra insulation
- Only one color choice
Key Features & Details
Ice Retention and Insulation Value
The ICEMULE BOSS will keep your drinks and food cold for multiple days with itʻs Polar Layer XT insulation. Whether your goal is to keep food cold for days on a camping trip or simply have a cold beer at the end of a hike, the BOSS has your back with the performance of a hard cooler. We can attest to this firsthand.
In fact, after a recent outing, my husband and I both thought the other had emptied the ice out of the cooler after putting our food and drinks back in the fridge. Instead, we had left the Cooler (unrolled!) in the garage with temps in the 70-80°F range. After an additional 48 hours, we still had ice with minimal melt!
I knew this Cooler was a beast, but I wasnʻt expecting that level of performance. Obviously, thatʻs not the intended use, but I can confidently say that if you pack it correctly, this cooler wonʻt let you down.
Comfort
In terms of comfort, this Cooler has a bit more structure and weight overall than the Jaunt and the Pro, which means that it doesnʻt mold to your body quite like other models. That said, ICEMULE has added features youʻd expect on a premium hiking backpack in an impressive ergonomic design.
The shoulder straps are double-padded air mesh and thereʻs an adjustable stabilizer strap. But our favorite added feature for comfort is the adjustable hip belt with padded, air mesh hip pads. The hip belt allows your hips – as opposed to your shoulders – to carry most of the weight, making it significantly more comfortable on long adventures.
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Portability
Becuase the BOSS is a backpack cooler like the majority of ICEMULEʻs lineup, itʻs extremely portable. The only downside we can see in this category is that you canʻt collapse this one flat or roll it. However, seeing as thatʻs due to the burly insulation layer that keeps ice cold for literal days, itʻs one we can live with.
Design & Function
I love all of the extra features that are included on the BOSS. Like all ICEMULE backpack coolers, the seams are welded and use a roll-top design, making it fully waterproof. It also uses the same IM AirValve for increased insulation, durable exterior, and top-loading design.
But it has several additional features that truly make it the BOSS of backpack coolers. First is 3 waterproof, insulated cargo pockets with waterproof zippers. In addition, you have molle webbing on both sides and industrial clip points on the bottom of the bag, making it easy to customize or attach additional items as needed.
My only complaint with this model is that loading the Cooler is a bit more challenging due to the thickness of the insulation. It makes the interior less flexible and more narrow than other models. This was not an issue when loading canned drinks or water bottles, but bulkier food items or containers can be a bit of a tight fit. That said, when loading a hard-sided cooler with zero flexibility, the challenge is even worse.
Available Sizes and Cost
The ICEMULE BOSS comes in a single 30L size. When closed, it measures 12.5” x 9” x 25” and can hold 24 standard 12-oz cans or 5 750ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $374.95.
ICEMULE Clear Review
New to the ICEMULE Cooler lineup in 2022, the Clear is a backpack cooler unlike any other. Designed specifically for events and venues that require clear bags for entry, the Clear allows you to keep food and drinks cold for 5-7 hours.
The Clear is the newest addition to the ICEMULE Coolers lineup and is designed for use in venues where clear bags are required.
- Best for venues that allow food and drinks, but require clear bags for entry.
- Ice retention for 5-7 hours.
- Clear construction makes it easy to see contents.
- Unique clear design for events and venues
- Waterproof
- Leakproof
- Floats
- Simple to use
- Dimensions may be too large for some venues.
- The Clear is the only model we tested where we noticed sweating on the outside of the cooler.
Key Features & Details
Ice Retention & Insulation Value
In terms of ice retention, you’ll get several hours (up to 5-7) with the Clear, which was plenty of time to keep our drinks cool for an evening event or afternoon at the lake.
Unlike other models, we did experience some condensation accumulation and a bit of sweating on the exterior of the Clear in extremely hot (90°F and up) weather. I attribute this to the difference in the material on the Clear. However, it wasn’t significant enough to be a deal breaker – it was honestly a welcome cool down from the relentless heat.
Comfort
Like other models, the Clear has padded, adjustable backpack straps that are comfortable to wear for extended periods. The sizing makes it perfect for adults or older kids (ours are 10 and 12) to carry.
Portability
The portability of the Clear is neck and neck with the Jaunt. It’s extremely portable, takes up a small amount of space, and is a great size for travel.
Design & Function
In terms of design, we’ve never seen another cooler like the Clear! The ability to have cold drinks AND meet the requirements of many venues is a huge perk.
We have run into a situation where the 9L was still a little larger than allowed. However, in one instance, I did compress it down as far as it would go and was able to enter. That said, I do highly recommend you double-check the measurements against the requirements of the venues you frequently visit.
Available Sizes & Cost
The ICEMULE Clear comes in two sizes, 15L and 9L.
The 15 L measures 9″ x 8.5″ x 17″ when closed and can hold 12-15 standard size 12-oz cans, or 3-4 750 ml bottles plus ice.* List price on ICEMULE is $89.95.
The 9L measures 7″ x 7.5″ x 17″ when closed and can hold 6-9 standard size 12-oz cans or 2-3 750 ml bottles plus ice. List price on ICEMULE is $109.95.
*The Clear stands out from other models in the ICEMULE product line by using only air to insulate. Due to this, they recommend filling with the lower recommended number of cans or bottles and adding extra ice for maximum ice retention.
ICEMULE Classic Review
The flagship model in the ICEMULE lineup, the Classic is designed to be a lightweight, waterproof cooler that is comfortable, durable, and versatile. Years later, it still delivers.
Unique from the other coolers in this review that have two padded backpack straps, the Classic has a single sling-style strap (say that five times fast 😜) that can be worn cross-body.
The ICEMULE Classic is a versatile, budget-friendly option that is completely waterproof and will keep your drinks ice cold for up to 24 hours.
- Best for carrying lighter loads, trips to the park, and water sports
- Ice retention for up to 24 hours
- Completely waterproof with welded seams and no zippers
- Most budget-friendly option in the ICEMULE lineup, but doesn’t skimp on performance
- Wide variety of colors and sizes to fit your personal style and needs
- 9L Mini size option is great for personal use, or for kids
- Waterproof
- Leakproof
- Floats
- Simple to use
- Single strap, cross-body design may not be as comfortable for some people, especially in the larger sizes when fully loaded.
- The largest size available in this model is 20L, which may not be big enough for a full-day family outing (though we’d recommend the Pro or BOSS for larger capacity comfort anyway)
Key Features & Details
Ice Retention & Insulation Value
The ICEMULE Classic is engineered to keep your beverages cold for up to 24 hours, which is more than enough time for an afternoon at the park or a day at the lake.
Comfort
Unlike other models in this review, the Classic has a single sling-style strap for an easy cross-body carry. It’s comfortable enough with light loads (we tested the 9L model). However, I anticipate that a fully loaded 20L version would be less comfortable for long periods of time – especially for those with a larger bust.
Portability
Out of the models we tested, the Classic is tied for most portable with the Jaunt. The smaller sizes and the ability to roll or collapse completely for storage make it one of my top picks for travel.
Design & Function
The Classic was designed to make it easier to take cold drinks on adventures and it delivers on that promise. When closed properly, its welded seams and lack of zippers make it completely waterproof – plus, it will also float, making it perfect for water activities. It’s no wonder that this design was the catalyst for an entire line of functional backpack coolers!
Available Sizes & Cost
The ICEMULE Classic comes in four sizes, 20L (Large), 15L (Medium), 10L (Small), and 9L (Mini).
The 20 L measures 11.5″ x 11.5″ x 18″ when closed and can hold 20 cans with ice, 30 cans without ice, or 23 lbs of ice on its own. List price on ICEMULE is $94.95.
The 15 L measures 10.25” x 10.25” x 18’ when closed and can hold 16 cans with ice, 24 cans without ice, or 16 lbs of ice on its own. List price on ICEMULE is $84.95.
The 10 L measures 9” x 9” x 18” when closed and can hold 12 cans with ice, 18 cans without ice, or 12 lbs of ice on its own. List price on ICEMULE is $74.95.
The 9 L measures 7” x 7.5” x 14” when closed and can hold 10 cans with ice, 12 cans without ice, or 7 lbs of ice on its own. List price on ICEMULE is $64.95.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICEMULE Coolers
How Do ICEMULE Coolers Work?
ICEMULE Coolers keep food and drinks ice cold with their unique insulation layers, IM AirValve allowing you to add air to the insulating layer, and roll-top closure to create a watertight seal.
Do ICEMULE Coolers sweat?
In our experience, no! ICEMULE Coolers do not sweat.
Do ICEMULE coolers float?
They sure do! As long as you close them properly and fill the insulating layer with air, they will float. 🙌
How do you use the Icemule Backpack Cooler?
ICEMULE recommends that you use a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio for their backpack coolers for the best performance and ice retention. Properly closing the bag and adding air via the IM AirValve will aid in ice retention.
Personally, weʻve found that these Artic Ice Tundra Series ice packs work perfectly for us to reduce mess and keep things cold. However, itʻs essential to note that this series is intended to create a “freezer-like” temperature in coolers, and if you place food directly on top of them, it might freeze. We place a layer of cardboard between the ice pack and any food or drinks we donʻt want to be frozen. Or, if weʻre craving a treat, weʻll take popsicles or ice cream and place it directly on the ice pack. 😋
How do I close my ICEMULE Cooler?
The best way to close an ICEMULE Cooler with a roll-top, youʻll fold the top 2-3 times towards the front of the bag, then pull the clips together on the back towards the straps.
Final Thoughts on ICEMULE Coolers
If youʻve ever dreamed of enjoying a cold drink at the top of a hike on a hot day or struggled to carry a giant hard-sided cooler more than a few feet from your car, an ICEMULE Cooler is the answer to your wishes.
After testing them out in various conditions, we believe they truly are worth the hype. ICEMULE Coolers are the best soft-sided backpack coolers weʻve found and we highly recommend these high-quality coolers to make your next adventure easier.
Where to Buy ICEMULE Coolers
ICEMULE Coolers can be bought on the ICEMULE website as well at many outdoor retailers across the United States, including:
You can also check the ICEMULE Store Locator or check with these other retailers in the Pacific Northwest:
- Salem Summit Company – Salem, OR
- Outdoorplay – Hood River, OR
- Backcountry Gear – Eugene, OR
- Outside In – Bend, OR
- The Ledge – Klamath Falls, OR
- Swains General Store – Port Angeles, WA
- Boise Co-op – Boise, ID
- Tri-State Outfitters – Moscow, ID
IceMule PRO should last for years, however, the website for IceMule states they will only warranty it for ninety (90) days. Spending $370+ for a backpack cooler with a 90 day warranty is up to you. I will look elsewhere after my IM PRO cooler wears out.
Totally understand your thoughts on this! I’m super curious – have you had any issues with yours?
I’m sure their warranty time frame has to do with the soft sided nature of the coolers in case someone is super rough on it beyond normal wear and tear. That said, another option is to purchase from REI. As a member, you can return up to a year later – which we have done – so it gives that extra assurance!